Working While Studying in Germany: Complete Guide for International Students at Steinbeis University

The Legal Framework: Understanding Your Work Rights as an International Student in Germany

Germany has clear, student-friendly regulations that allow international students from outside the European Union to work while pursuing their degrees. Unlike some countries that severely restrict student employment or make it complicated to obtain work permission, Germany recognizes that part-time work enhances both your financial stability and your professional development.

The 120/240 Day Rule Explained

As an international student in Germany holding a student visa or residence permit, you are legally permitted to work:

120 full days per year OR 240 half days per year

This regulation applies to all international students from non-EU/EEA countries studying at recognized German institutions, including Steinbeis University.

What counts as a "full day"?
A full day means any day where you work more than 4 hours. So if you work an 8-hour shift on Saturday, that counts as one full day.

What counts as a "half day"?
A half day is any day where you work 4 hours or less. If you work a 3-hour shift, that's counted as a half day.

Strategic implications of this rule:
You can structure your work schedule to maximize your earning potential within legal limits. For example:

• Working 2-3 hours per day for 5 days a week = 5 half days weekly = approximately 40 half days per semester (well within your 240 half-day limit)

• Working full 8-hour days on weekends only = 2 full days weekly = approximately 16 full days per semester (also well within your 120 full-day limit)

• Combining both approaches depending on your academic schedule and workload

Important exceptions:
Student assistant positions (Hiwi jobs) at universities and mandatory internships that are part of your curriculum do NOT count toward these limits. This means if you're working as a research assistant at Steinbeis University or completing a required internship for your program, you can work additional hours beyond the 120/240 limit.

Semester Breaks: Unlimited Work Hours

Here's excellent news for students who want to work more intensively during vacation periods: During semester breaks (typically February-March and July-September), international students can work unlimited hours without any restrictions.

This policy acknowledges that students have more time during breaks and allows you to:

• Work full-time internships to gain intensive experience

• Save money for the upcoming semester

• Take on temporary project work or consulting assignments

• Build your professional portfolio with substantial work experience

Many Steinbeis students strategically plan their employment around this policy, working part-time during semesters (when academic commitments are heavier) and full-time during breaks (when they can dedicate themselves entirely to professional development).

Types of Work Opportunities for Students in Germany

Understanding what you can legally do is one thing; knowing what opportunities actually exist is another. Let's explore the diverse employment landscape available to international students in Germany, particularly in Berlin.

Part-Time Jobs (Teilzeitjobs / Minijobs)

What they are:
Part-time positions typically requiring 10-20 hours per week, often in service industries, retail, hospitality, or administrative roles.

Common examples:

• Café or restaurant staff

• Retail sales associates

• Customer service representatives

• Administrative assistants

• Tutoring (particularly English tutoring, which is in high demand)

• Event staff at conferences, trade fairs, and festivals

Typical pay:
€12-15 per hour (Germany has a statutory minimum wage of €12.41 per hour as of 2024)

Advantages for students:

• Flexible hours that can be scheduled around classes

• Opportunity to practice German and integrate into local culture

• Develop soft skills like customer service, communication, and problem-solving

• Relatively easy to find, especially in a major city like Berlin

How to find these jobs:

• Job portals like Indeed.de, StepStone, and Jobmensa (specifically for students)

• University job boards and student services

• Direct applications to businesses (many restaurants and cafés hire through walk-in applications)

• Word of mouth and networking with other students

Working Student Positions (Werkstudent)

What they are:
Working student positions are the gold standard for international students in Germany. These are professional roles directly related to your field of study, where you work 15-20 hours per week during semesters for established companies.

Why they're special:
Werkstudent positions offer several unique advantages:

• Higher pay: Typically €15-25 per hour, sometimes more in tech and consulting

• Relevant experience: Work directly aligned with your career goals

• Professional development: Build skills, network, and portfolio

• Reduced social security contributions: Special tax treatment for students

• Potential for full-time offers: Many companies hire their working students after graduation

Common fields:

• Technology and software development

• Data analytics and business intelligence

• Digital marketing and social media management

• Human resources and organizational development

• Business consulting and strategy

• Project management

• UX/UI design

How to find Werkstudent positions:

• Company career pages (especially large corporations and startups)

• LinkedIn job search filtered for "Werkstudent" or "Working Student"

• Specialized platforms like Jobteaser, Graduateland, and Campusjäger

• Steinbeis University's Joinnext platform (more on this below)

• University career fairs and networking events

Example scenario:
Maria, a Data Analytics & AI Master's student at Steinbeis, works as a Werkstudent at a Berlin fintech startup. She works 16 hours per week during the semester analyzing customer data and building predictive models. She earns €20/hour (€1,280/month), gains practical experience with real business data, and has already received informal signals that the company wants to hire her full-time after graduation.

Internships (Praktikum)

What they are:
Internships can be either part-time during semesters or full-time during semester breaks. They provide intensive experience in a professional setting, often for a fixed duration (3-6 months).

Types of internships:

• Mandatory internships: Required by a university's program curriculum (these don't count toward your 120/240 work limit)

• Voluntary internships: Optional professional development opportunities (these do count toward your limit during semesters but are unlimited during breaks)

Typical compensation:
€800-1,500 per month for full-time internships, sometimes more at large corporations or tech companies

Strategic value for international students:

• Intensive skill development in a short time

• Strong additions to your CV

• Professional references for future job applications

• Often serve as extended job interviews (many companies hire successful interns)

• Opportunity to experience different company cultures and industries

How Steinbeis programs integrate internships:
Many Steinbeis programs incorporate practical projects and transfer work that can be completed through internships or Werkstudent positions, allowing you to earn academic credit while gaining professional experience and income. This integration of theory and practice is central to Steinbeis's educational philosophy.

Student Assistant Positions (Hiwi - Hilfswissenschaftler)

What they are:
Student assistant positions at the university itself, supporting professors with research, course administration, library work, or departmental projects.

Key advantages:

• Flexible scheduling (professors understand academic priorities)

• Intellectual work aligned with your studies

• Close mentorship from faculty

• Excellent for students considering academic careers or PhD programs

• Does NOT count toward 120/240 work limits

Typical pay:
€12-15 per hour for 6-10 hours per week

How to find Hiwi positions:
Check university job boards, talk directly to professors in your department, or inquire with the student services office at Steinbeis.

Freelancing and Self-Employment

What it is:
Some international students with specialized skills offer freelance services such as web development, graphic design, writing, consulting, or tutoring.

Legal considerations:
Freelancing is technically allowed for international students, but requires:

• Registration as a freelancer (Freiberufler) or small business (Kleingewerbe)

• Tax number from the Finanzamt

• Compliance with visa regulations (check with Ausländerbehörde first)

• Freelance hours count toward your 120/240 limit unless during semester breaks

Best suited for:

• Students with in-demand technical skills (programming, data science, design)

• Those with existing client relationships from home countries

• Advanced students with significant expertise to offer

How Steinbeis University Supports Your Work and Career Development

Unlike many universities that take a hands-off approach to student employment, Steinbeis University actively supports and facilitates your professional development and job search through comprehensive career services and unique programs.

The Career Advisory Team: Your Professional Development Partners

Steinbeis University's Career Advisory Team is dedicated specifically to helping students navigate the German job market, find opportunities, and develop professional skills.

Services provided:

1. CV and Application Document Reviews
German CV and application formats differ significantly from those in other countries. The Career Advisory Team provides:

• Review and feedback on your German and English CVs

• Guidance on German application conventions (photo, detailed formatting, etc.)

• Cover letter (Anschreiben) writing support

• Portfolio development for creative fields

2. Interview Preparation
Preparing for German job interviews requires understanding cultural codes and expectations. The team offers:

• Mock interviews in English and German

• Feedback on presentation and communication style

• Guidance on salary negotiation in German context

• Cultural coaching for German workplace norms

3. Job Search Strategy
Finding the right opportunities requires strategy, particularly in a foreign country. Support includes:

Identifying industries and companies aligned with your career goals

• Networking strategy and personal branding

• LinkedIn optimization for German job market

• Understanding visa and work permit implications for different employment types

4. Career Planning and Goal Setting
Beyond immediate job search, the Career Advisory Team helps with:

• Long-term career path planning

• Identifying skill gaps and development opportunities

• Connecting you with alumni in your field

• Understanding different career tracks in Germany vs. your home country

Real student experience:
As Josephine Amoako shared: "The knowledge I have gained at Steinbeis has been invaluable in helping to partner with leaders I support and becoming a more proactive involved employee. The interactive theory/real-life experience has been very helpful in applying the concepts in everyday working environments."

This integration of career support with academic learning ensures you're not just studying theory, but actively building the skills and connections needed for professional success.

Joinnext Platform: Your Gateway to Opportunities

One of Steinbeis University's most valuable resources for students is the Joinnext job search platform—a curated portal providing exclusive access to employment opportunities specifically suited for Steinbeis students.

What makes Joinnext special:

1. Werkstudent Positions
The platform regularly features working student positions from partner companies actively seeking Steinbeis students. These aren't generic job postings—these are companies that understand and value the practical, project-based education that Steinbeis provides.

2. Part-Time Jobs
Beyond professional Werkstudent roles, Joinnext includes part-time opportunities for students who need flexible work to support themselves financially while studying.

3. Internship Opportunities
Full-time and part-time internships across various industries, allowing you to gain intensive experience during semester breaks or integrate practical work with your studies.

4. Post-Graduation Career Opportunities
As you approach graduation, Joinnext becomes even more valuable, featuring full-time positions and graduate programs from companies specifically recruiting Steinbeis graduates.

The Steinbeis Purpose Path: Career Preparation Integrated into Your Education

Beyond specific services and platforms, Steinbeis integrates career preparation directly into your educational experience through the Steinbeis Purpose Path—a structured program that prepares you for German career success throughout your studies.

Components of the Purpose Path:

One-on-One Coaching Sessions
Regular individual meetings with career coaches to discuss your goals, challenges, and progress. This personalized attention ensures your unique circumstances and aspirations are addressed.

Personal Branding Training
Learn to articulate your value proposition, build your professional online presence, and differentiate yourself in competitive job markets.

Understanding German Cultural Codes
Navigate the specific expectations, communication styles, and professional norms of German workplace culture—critical knowledge for international students.

Social Network Utilization
Master LinkedIn, XING (Germany's professional network), and other platforms to build your network and discover opportunities.

Interview Training
Practice and refine your interview skills through workshops and mock interviews, receiving constructive feedback to improve your performance.

Salary Negotiation
Learn how to research appropriate salary ranges, negotiate effectively, and understand the total compensation package in German context.

Work Contracts and German Employment Law
Understand your rights and responsibilities as an employee in Germany, read and evaluate employment contracts, and navigate legalities confidently.

Job Search Support in Germany
Practical guidance on where to look, how to apply, when to follow up, and strategies specific to the German job market.

This comprehensive support means you're not navigating the German job market alone—you have expert guidance every step of the way.

The Berlin Advantage: Why Location Matters for Student Employment

Studying at Steinbeis University places you in Berlin, which offers unique advantages for student employment that shouldn't be underestimated.

Diverse Economy

Berlin's economy spans traditional industries and cutting-edge sectors:

• Technology and startups: Europe's leading startup ecosystem with thousands of tech companies

• Creative industries: Media, advertising, design, fashion, arts

• Finance and consulting: Growing financial sector and numerous consulting firms

• Healthcare and biotech: Major research hospitals and pharmaceutical companies

• Tourism and hospitality: Constant demand for part-time workers

• E-commerce and digital businesses: Major European headquarters for global companies

This diversity means opportunities exist for students across all programs and interests.

International Work Environment

Berlin is Germany's most international city, with English widely spoken in professional contexts. Many companies operate in English, making it easier for international students to find work without perfect German fluency. This is particularly true in:

• Startups and scale-ups

• International corporations

• Tech companies

• Creative agencies

• Consulting firms

While learning German is beneficial and recommended, you can find relevant professional work in English, especially in fields aligned with Steinbeis programs like Data Analytics, Digital Marketing, and Business Psychology.

Startup Ecosystem

Berlin is home to over 3,000 startups, creating constant demand for working students and interns. Startups offer:

• More flexibility for student schedules

• Opportunity to take on significant responsibility quickly

• Exposure to multiple business functions

• Fast-paced learning environments

• Often higher willingness to hire international students

Many Steinbeis students find their first German work experience at startups before moving to larger corporations.

Affordable Cost of Living Relative to Other Major Cities

While Berlin's cost of living has risen in recent years, it remains significantly more affordable than other major European business hubs like London, Paris, Amsterdam, or Munich. This means:

• Part-time work can meaningfully support your living expenses

• You don't need to work excessive hours just to survive

• You can be selective about choosing work aligned with your career goals

• Your 120/240 work days can generate sufficient income

Typical monthly expenses for students in Berlin:

• Rent: €400-850 (shared accommodation)

• Food and groceries: €200-300

• Transport - Deutschland Ticket €58 (Subject to change in 2026)

• Health insurance: €110-150

• Other expenses: €100-200

Total: approximately €900-1,500 per month

Working 15-20 hours per week at €15/hour generates roughly €900-1,200 per month after taxes, making it genuinely possible to support yourself through part-time work while studying.

Public Transport Accessibility

Berlin's excellent public transport system (U-Bahn, S-Bahn, trams, buses) makes it easy to reach work locations across the city. With your semester ticket (included in university fees), you have unlimited transport access, eliminating commute costs and time concerns.

Balancing Work and Studies: Practical Strategies from Successful Students

Working while studying requires careful time management and realistic planning. Here are strategies from successful Steinbeis students:

Semester Planning

At the beginning of each semester:

• Review your course schedule and identify busy weeks (exams, major assignments)

• Communicate your academic calendar to your employer in advance

• Block out time for classes, study, and work visually using a calendar

• Build buffer time for unexpected academic demands

Realistic Work Hour Commitments

General guidelines:

• First semester: Start with minimal work (5-10 hours/week) while adjusting to studies

• Regular semesters: 12-20 hours/week is sustainable for most students

• Thesis/final semester: Reduce work hours or take time off if financially possible

• Semester breaks: Increase to full-time work if desired/allowed

Choosing Work Aligned with Studies

Whenever possible, seek employment related to your field of study. This creates synergies rather than conflicts:

• Work reinforces what you learn in class

• Academic knowledge directly applies to work tasks

• Work experience provides real-world examples for academic discussions and assignments

• Employers value your academic perspective

• You're building relevant expertise, not just earning money

Example: Daniel Guirguis reflected: "Content of the program was very very practical, it was very rich. It really helped me grow on the professional level. It challenged me and helped me expand my perspective."

When your work aligns with your studies, both enhance each other rather than competing for your time and energy.

Communication is Key

With professors:

• Inform professors if you're working and may need occasional flexibility

• Most are understanding, especially if you're gaining relevant experience

• Don't use work as an excuse for poor preparation—take responsibility

With employers:

• Be honest about your status as a student and exam periods

• Most German employers value student workers and are flexible around exams

• Communicate scheduling conflicts early, not last minute

• Be reliable—if you commit to hours, honor them

Self-Care and Boundaries

Working while studying is demanding. Protect your wellbeing:

• Schedule regular breaks and downtime

• Don't sacrifice sleep or health for extra work hours

• Know when to say no to additional shifts or projects

• Maintain social connections and recreational activities

• Seek support from advisors if feeling overwhelmed

Financial Benefits: How Working Impacts Your Student Budget

Understanding the financial implications of working helps you make informed decisions about how much to work.

Earning Potential Calculations

Scenario 1: Moderate part-time work

• 12 hours/week at €13/hour = €156/week

• Over 16-week semester = approximately €2,500 gross

• Two semesters = approximately €5,000/year

• Plus full-time summer work (8 weeks at 40 hours/week at €13/hour) = approximately €4,200

• Total annual income: approximately €9,200

Scenario 2: Active Werkstudent

• 18 hours/week at €18/hour = €324/week

• Over 16-week semester = approximately €5,200 gross

• Two semesters = approximately €10,400/year

• Plus full-time summer work (8 weeks at 40 hours/week at €18/hour) = approximately €5,800

• Total annual income: approximately €16,200

Tax Considerations

German tax law is generally favorable to students:

• Mini-jobs (€520 or less per month) are tax-free

• Werkstudent positions have reduced social security contributions

• Annual income under approximately €11,604 (2024) generally results in tax refunds if tax was withheld

• Many students file annual tax returns (Steuererklärung) and receive refunds

Consider consulting with tax advisors or services like Wundertax or Taxfix that specialize in student tax returns.

Impact on Living Costs

Working even moderately (12-15 hours/week) can cover:

• Entire rent in shared accommodation

• Most or all food expenses

• Social and entertainment activities

• Emergency fund for unexpected expenses

• Travel during semester breaks

This financial independence reduces stress and allows you to focus on academics and career development without constant money concerns.

Legal Compliance and Best Practices

Understanding regulations is crucial to avoid visa or legal complications.

Tracking Your Work Hours

Keep detailed records:

• Maintain a spreadsheet or use apps like Clockify or Toggl

• Log each day you work and whether it was a full or half day

• Track your cumulative total throughout the year

• Stay well within limits to avoid any risk

Why this matters:
If immigration authorities (Ausländerbehörde) review your visa status, you may need to prove you've complied with work limitations. Accurate records protect you.

Employer Responsibilities

Legitimate employers in Germany will:

• Register you for social security (if applicable)

• Provide written employment contracts

• Pay at least minimum wage (€12.41/hour as of 2024)

• Issue monthly pay slips (Lohnabrechnung)

• Withhold and remit taxes appropriately

Red flags to avoid:

• Cash-only payment with no documentation

• Below minimum wage offers

• Employers who claim you don't need a contract

• Jobs that ask you to work "off the books"

Working illegally puts your visa status at risk. Only accept legitimate employment with proper documentation.

Visa Renewal Considerations

When renewing your residence permit, immigration authorities may ask:

• Whether you're working

• How many hours you're working

• Proof of academic progress (to ensure work isn't interfering with studies)

Maintaining good academic standing and staying within work hour limits ensures smooth visa renewals.

Post-Graduation: The 18-Month Work Permit Advantage

One of Germany's most attractive features for international students is the post-study work visa (Aufenthaltserlaubnis zur Arbeitsplatzsuche) which allows you to stay in Germany for 18 months after graduation to find employment related to your degree.

Key features:

• Valid for 18 months after graduation

• Allows unlimited work hours

• No specific job required to obtain it (it's for job searching)

• Can lead to permanent work permit (Blue Card or standard work visa)

• One of the most generous post-study schemes globally

Strategic implications:

• Work experience gained during studies gives you competitive advantage in post-graduation job search

• Professional networks built while working as student often lead to full-time offers

• German language skills developed through work make you more employable

• Understanding German workplace culture from student work smooths transition

Many Steinbeis graduates successfully transition from Werkstudent positions to full-time employment at the same companies after graduation, making student work a strategic long-term investment.

Success Stories: From Student Work to Career

While protecting student privacy, the patterns are clear: Steinbeis students who actively engage with work opportunities during their studies consistently achieve better career outcomes:

• Higher starting salaries (due to relevant experience and negotiation skills)

• Faster job search processes (often with offers before graduation)

• Better cultural integration in German workplaces

• Stronger professional networks

• More confidence and clarity about career direction

The combination of Steinbeis's practical educational approach and strategic student employment creates graduates who are immediately valuable to employers.

Your Action Plan: Starting Your Work Journey While Studying

Ready to start working while studying at Steinbeis University? Here's your step-by-step action plan:

Before Arriving in Germany:

• Research potential employers in your field

• Prepare English CV and begin learning German CV format

• Build LinkedIn profile highlighting skills relevant to German market

• Connect with current Steinbeis students to learn about opportunities

First Semester:

• Register for Joinnext platform immediately

• Attend Career Advisory Team orientation

• Focus primarily on settling into studies, but keep eyes open for opportunities

• Consider light part-time work (5-10 hours) if financially necessary

• Build German language skills (Steinbeis offers free German courses)

Second Semester and Beyond:

• Apply for Werkstudent positions aligned with your program

• Attend career fairs and networking events

• Use Career Advisory Team for CV reviews and interview prep

• Build relationships with professors who might know of opportunities

Throughout Your Studies:

• Track work hours meticulously

• Maintain strong academic performance (work should enhance, not hinder studies)

• Continuously develop skills valued by German employers

• Build network through work, studies, and professional events

• Plan strategically for post-graduation employment

Conclusion: Work as an Integral Part of Your German Education

Working while studying in Germany isn't just about earning money, though the financial support is certainly valuable. It's about integrating professional development with academic learning, exactly as Steinbeis Next's educational philosophy envisions.

Germany's student-friendly work regulations, Berlin's diverse employment landscape, and Steinbeis University's comprehensive career support create ideal conditions for international students to gain meaningful work experience while earning their degrees.

Whether you work part-time in a café to support living expenses, secure a Werkstudent position developing skills in your field, or complete intensive internships during breaks, you're building toward career success from day one.

The question isn't whether you can work while studying in Germany—you absolutely can. The question is: how will you strategically use this opportunity to build the career and life you envision?

With up to 120 full or 240 half working days available annually, unlimited work during semester breaks, comprehensive support from Steinbeis's Career Advisory Team, and access to opportunities through the Joinnext platform, you have everything you need to successfully balance work and studies while building toward your professional future.

Ready to start your journey of studying and working in Germany? Apply to Steinbeis University, explore the Joinnext platform, and begin building the practical experience that will define your career.

Steinbeis University - Schools of Next Practices: Where academic excellence meets practical experience, and international students build successful careers in Germany's strongest economy.